All around the world holiday traditions are continued in effort to bring families together. From the traditional to the non traditional, these practices help weave connections between generations and foster strong family bonds. 

One family tradition that has become mainstream in the U.S. is reading the children’s book, the “Night Before Christmas” on Christmas Eve. As families prepare for the arrival of Santa Claus and the busy Christmas Day ahead, they often gather around the tree as one of the older family members reads. 

Hanukkah is an eight day celebration recognized by those who are of the Jewish faith. The literal meaning of the word is dedication, meaning it symbolizes the rededication to the Holy Temple and is a symbol of the light that burned for eight straight day and nights during some of the worst of times.  To celebrate, Jewish people around the globe find a renewed sense of hope and often feel comforted by the twinkling lights. The holiday is generally celebrated by lighting the menorah, eating traditional foods such as “latkes”, and playing dreidel games.

Although unique to many of us, many parts of Northwest Europe celebrate St. Nicholas Day. St. Nicholas is recognized as the 4th century bishop who inspired the creation of Santa Claus. Children leave their shoes out on the night of December 5 in hopes of finding them filled with small gifts/coins the next morning. 

Another popular holiday practice is Christmas markets. With origins in Germany, Christmas markets, which sell traditional food as well as handmade gifts, were generally held at night. Now, Christmas markets can be seen all around the world; local vendors help people to find unique gifts for their loved ones including everything from handmade ornaments to knitted scarfs to bath products. 

Kwanzaa is a holiday based on cultural meaning, rather than a more religious meaning. The holiday lasts for seven days, each day representing a different principle to honor specific principles such as unity, purpose, creativity, and self-determination.